Dynamic Rock's "Hybrid Theory" CD Review |
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Like events that occur in a person’s lifetime, in which many events will come and go with hardly a passing glance, others may linger for a time, while certain rare events will leave a permanent mark; bands within the music industry go through a similar transition. There are hundreds of bands that are out there today, each trying to leave their own unique brand upon the music scene, yet very few will even come close to succeeding, and those few that do will leave a powerful impression that will stay within the hearts and minds of listeners forever. Linkin Park is one of those very rare bands whose music will continue to linger long past the final echoes have resonated through your soul. Combining a unique blend of electronica, infused with live instruments and creative sampling, Linkin Park’s sound takes the entire rap/rock genre to another level. Then again, labels cannot accurately describe this amazing collage of musical composition, which is both moving and raw at the same time, similar to a cross between Incubus and Stabbing Westward. Featuring memorable rhythms induced by artistic programming that contains an energy and vibe that is reminiscent of a mix between dance and electronica music, likened to a cross between Gravity Kills and Prodigy. This rhythm section is accented by steady and brisk drumwork, which in turn is underlined by tight, flowing melodies and intricate guitar riffs that spew out with authority and finesse. Add to that an amazing array of sampling effects that merely ripens and defines the overall sound, and you have an aural assault that will leave the listener entirely enthralled and amazed, never questioning the absence of any bass player. The incorporation of so many unique elements and variety that is accessed throughout is highly defined through song structures that are both simplistic and complex in nature. The passion, talent, and diversity that emanate from these five unique individuals and are incorporated into the single unit that is known as Linkin Park will simply overwhelm the listener. Utilizing the amazing range and talents of vocalists Chester and Shinoda, whose powerfully impassioned lyrics are expressed through a dynamic dual vocal styling that definitely steals the show. With Shinoda first grabbing the attention of the listener with his crisp, engaging rap/hip-hop style that is reminiscent of Crazy Town’s vocal styling, it is the emergence of Chester’s amazingly beautiful vocals who takes the listener to the edge and beyond. Both vocalists possess amazing range from rap/singing, melodic singing and some harsher-edged, raw singing and screaming, all of which beautifully expresses the emotional outpouring that is bursting forth from their hearts. As tight as the flow is between the music and the vocals, it is the charisma and chemistry between Shinoda and Chester that truly makes the Linkin Park style so very special, engaging in epic and meaningful interplay between the two that will capture the hearts of many. The name of Linkin Park’s debut cd, “Hybrid Theory”, which at one time had been the name of the band, captures perfectly the essence of the album, eclectic, diverse, intelligent, unique and revolutionary. Definitely one of the more engaging and memorable cds that can be found today with each song being special in its own way, “Hybrid Theory” is a cd that will definitely become a mainstay. From the first single “One Step Closer” to “Runaway” which are two songs that combine steady beats and grooves with rap-induced vocals underlined by melodic singing, memorable rock-like choruses and powerful harsher-edged interludes. “Papercut” and “With You” combine a unique mix of mainstream appeal with rawness to create songs backed by powerful beats, scintillating riffs and sampling and extraordinary vocal interplay. “Points of Authority” has more of an electronica/dance vibe as does “Cure For the Itch” which is just an instrumental sprayed with sampling. The two best songs on the cd, “In the End” and “Crawling” showcase the gentler side of the band with beautiful melodies and vocals underlined by steady grooves, excellent rap/singing, powerfully meaningful choruses and great dual vocal interplay. >From the moment this band first burst upon the music scene, it was evident that Linkin Park possessed something special. Even now, with the band not really having established them selves, the buzz has already spread like wildfire with the band’s reputation far preceding them. Fortunately, this is one band whose abilities will definitely be able to achieve and exceed the lofty expectations of any and all that may be out to judge the band. For those of you who have not heard of this band, fear not as Linkin Park will soon become a household name within the music industry and a foundation for many future bands that one day will hope to leave a permanent mark as Linkin Park no doubt will. Final Score: 9.25 out of 10 Back To Review Main |
